Joan Nathan, chef, tv host, and cookbook author, spent a lot of time planning the kitchen in the Massachusetts seaside house where she and her husband Allan Gerson spend summers and, sometimes, holidays. She wanted efficiency because she tests recipes even when on vacation. But she also wanted a countrified, light-filled space that would be "user-friendly, so my family and I could cook together," she says.

Working with architect Stephen Muse, FAIA, and project architect Warren Short, AIA, of Muse Architects in Washington, D.C.—and kitchen designer Jennifer Gilmer of Chevy Chase, Maryland, who helped to choose the Wood-Mode cabinets and the appliances—Nathan established the desired efficiency with a pro-style six-burner range, plenty of food-preparation space, and a deep, roomy sink.

The extra-high counter, a great place to feed the kids or grab a quick breakfast, shields the adjoining living area from kitchen clutter. In the highly efficient food-preparation zone, storage abounds; allowing the cook to keep essential equipment stowed within easy reach. The banquette cushions lift off to reveal ample storage for large, seldom-used items.

A work island, positioned to create a subtle separation between the cooking zone and the adjacent living-dining area, provides the extra counter space. "The butcher-block island seems to beckon family and friends to work, cook, or converse together" says Nathan. "It's exactly what I wanted my summer cooking to be like." The kitchen opens directly into the great room, but is tucked away so that it's not the first thing people see when entering the house. Dinner is usually served at the old English pine table in the dining area.

Commissioned to build a vacation home on the coast of Rhode Island, architect James Estes of Estes/Twombly Architects received a kitchen wish list from the owners: "ocean views, plenty of sunshine, and a family-friendly atmosphere." The New York City couple also wanted enough cooking, eating, and socializing space to suit themselves, their children, and a large extended family.

To capture views of the ocean, which is a short distance away, Estes placed major activity areas on the top floor, allowing for extra-high ceilings and tall windows to capture sunshine. The bright, welcoming kitchen's "abundant light particularly delights me," says the wife. Other favorite features—the banquette that wraps around two sides of the dining table, offering comfy family seating; the work island, whic doubles as a bar at party time; and the granite-clad serving counter that provides a visual break from the adjoining living room.